The treatment for precancerous cells in the cervix typically depends on many factors such as the age of the patient, the extent and location of the abnormal cells, and the severity of the condition. In most cases, treatment is not necessary if the precancerous cells are low-grade and only cause minor abnormalities in the cervix. However, if the cells are high-grade or severe, the doctor may recommend treatment options such as observation, surgery, or medications.
Observation is the primary option for women with low-grade precancerous cells since these cells have a higher chance of regressing on their own over time. The doctor may advise regular Pap smears and colposcopy exams at least once a year to examine the cervix and check for any changes.
If the abnormal cells have progressed to a high-grade lesion, a doctor may recommend one of several types of surgery. The most widely used technique is LEEP (loop electrosurgical excision procedure), a non-invasive procedure where an electrified wire is used to cut and remove the abnormal tissue from the cervix. Another surgical option is a cone biopsy, a procedure where a cone-shaped piece of cervical tissue is removed surgically.
If precancerous cells have spread throughout the cervix, medication therapy may be used. The medication therapy typically involves the application of a cream called Aldara, which stimulates the body’s immune system and helps the body fight off abnormal cells. Other treatment options include cryotherapy or freezing, where the abnormal cells are destroyed using a probe that freezes the tissue.
The treatment for precancerous cells in the cervix is varied depending on the severity and location of the abnormal cells. Treatment options may involve observation, surgery, or medication therapy. It is important to speak to a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your needs.
What do doctors do for precancerous cells?
When a patient is diagnosed with precancerous cells, the first thing a doctor will do is conduct further tests to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the condition. Once this is done, the doctor can then advise the patient on the most appropriate treatment options available.
One of the most common treatments is monitoring. In some cases, precancerous cells may not progress into cancer, and the doctor may choose to monitor the patient closely through regular checkups and testing. This allows them to keep a close eye on the condition and intervene as needed if the cells begin to progress.
Another treatment option is surgery. If the precancerous cells are in a localized area, the doctor may recommend surgically removing them. This is often the case with precancerous skin lesions or polyps found in the colon or rectum.
In more advanced cases, radiation therapy or chemotherapy may be used to destroy the precancerous cells or slow down their growth. This is more likely to be the case if the precancerous cells have progressed to a cancerous stage.
In addition to medical treatments, doctors will typically advise patients to make lifestyle changes that can help reduce their risk of developing cancer. This may include quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals and substances.
The treatment of precancerous cells can vary depending on the individual and the specific condition. However, with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, it is possible to prevent the progression of precancerous cells into cancer and improve the long-term outcomes for the patient.
